13 priests contact mobilization hotline on first day of its operation

Thirteen priests have already contacted the mobilization hotline. Photo: Today.ua

On the first day of operation of the legal assistance hotline on mobilization issues, 13 clergymen contacted the lawyers. The opening of the 24-hour support line for clergy was announced by UOC lawyer Archpriest Nikita Chekman.

"On the first day of the hotline’s operation, 13 priests have already contacted us with questions concerning mobilization and military service,” said Archpriest Nikita Chekman. “We provided all the priests with practical advice and suggested specific steps to obtain legal assistance.”

The human rights advocate urged the faithful to pray for the team of lawyers and promised to further develop this initiative. He reminded priests and their families that they can contact the hotline for support around the clock.

"Our lawyers, who are qualified attorneys, will provide you with initial legal assistance,” said Archpriest Nikita. “We do not always have the capacity to provide everyone with full legal representation, as our resources are also limited, but we can offer initial practical legal advice. We will also advise you on what to do next and whom to contact for further assistance."

The lawyers launched this initiative due to the increasing number of cases of forced mobilization of clergy. At the listed phone number +38 (093) 000-84-42, clergymen can receive round-the-clock consultations on conscription, military service, and the protection of their rights when dealing with representatives of territorial recruitment and social support centers (TRCs) and other government bodies.

As the UOJ reported, a UOC lawyer took up the defense of the rights of a priest abducted in Lutsk.

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